A few months ago a friend recounted the hilarious antics of an African Gray Parrot (pic), a bird that can attain the intellectual ability of a small child. When I was a young lad I spent countless hours repeating the word, “Hello” to my parakeet but it never uttered a word. I guess that doesn’t say much for either my or my bird’s intelligence, but I’m not one to be bitter.

African Grays, while entertaining, are not cheap. They can cost $1000, plus another $500 for the cage. Then there’s toys, food and veterinary care to add to the bill. My effort to be thrifty did not get along well with the potential cost, and when I learned of their need for attention, my interest waned.

All in all, it sounds like a great bird to visit at a friend’s house. Any takers?